Bowl, 11th-16th century
Nicoyaexpand_more
Earthenware, pigmentexpand_more
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John I. Mayexpand_more 85.127.1
Not on Viewexpand_more
The large, frontal, round eyes painted on this bowl represent the eyes of an owl. In the Nicoya-Guanacaste tradition, the owl held special ties to the Unknown, and was associated with the mysterious and sacred aspects of the afterlife. Owls, with their special nighttime vision, together with their ability to navigate long cavernous passageways, were seen as gifted creatures. The ancient Native cultures likened the owl's journey to the human journey into the afterlife, except that the owl was able to return. Because of this, owl imagery often signifies the role of spiritual messenger.
Details
- Title
- Bowl
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 85.127.1
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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